CH. 22 - Codependency and Enabling

Question 1

What is “enabling”?

Answer 1

to knowingly behave in such a way to make it possible for another person to continue to use chemicals without having to pay the natural consequences for his or her substance use disorder.

Question 2

What is “codependency”?

Answer 2

unhealthy relationship:

• The over-involvement with the dysfunctional family member
• The obsessive attempts on the part of the codependent person to control the dysfunctional family member’s behavior
• The extreme tendency to use external sources of self-worth
• The tendency to make personal sacrifices in an attempt to “cure” the dysfunctional family member of his/her behavior

Question 3

What do critics of the concept of “codependency” say is the problem with this concept?

Answer 3

Many critics of this construct point out that it seems to excuse individuals from responsibility for their behavior. Blame is shifted from the substance abusing individual and onto the significant other causing the codependency.

Question 4

What are the characteristics of codependency expressed by the person who is codependent?

Answer 4

• It is not OK for me to feel
• It is not OK for me to have problems of my own
• It is not ok form me to have fun or a life of my own
• I’m not lovable
• I’m never good enough
• If people act crazy, I am responsible